Keeping large snakes in Illinois

[Shelby]

I had my heart set on getting a larger snake, perhaps a male burm, but then someone told me it's a state law in Illinois that you can't keep a snake over 6' in length. I wondered if anyone knew for sure. I'm pretty sure some of you live in Illinois as well.

If that's the case, then Illinois sucks.. I'm moving somewhere else when I can.

I hope this is in the correct forum as well. :?

[sophie42204]

I don't know about Illinois law, but keeping a burm is serious business regardless. Even experienced keepers think twice before taking on a giant like that. If you find that it's not illegal, make sure you seriously think about it and do your research before making a decision.

[Shelby]

Yes, I know I know. I have. Plus that I have quite a bit of experience handling big burms. I'd probably get a boa before that anyway.

[led4urhead]

See if this link helps any

http://www.chicagoherp.org/laws/levell.htm

[Shelby]

thank you!

A fishing license is needed to collect bullfrogs? :shock: *cough cough*

Ok, bare with me now.. it says ' Although no definition of what constitutes a life-threatening reptile is included in this regulation, Illinois currently considers any adult (over six feet in length) constricting snake and all crocodilians to be life-threatening.'

that seems kind of contradictory.. it's not in the regulation, but it's considered life-threatening, and therefore regulated?

And there's a permit you can get? Anyone know about these?

[Schlyne]

As far as I know, you just need to go get a permit to keep snakes over six feet (or at least that's the way I interpt it).

I do live in IL Shelby, but I haven't looked into getting a permit or anything, since I don't own anything that should top six feet. When I get ready to get a larger snake or one that is far more likely to top six feet (like a BCI, for example) I will look into getting a permit.

Maybe try emailing somebody at the Chicago Herpological Society, if you're not a member. Somebody within that group ought to know

[Shelby]

Ah, that is a good idea. Thanks.

I'm not giving up all hope yet.

[Schlyne]

The wording of the state law needs to be revised.

If it was totally illegal, then the local chain pet storse shouldn't be able to sell red tails. And never mind the red tails, I have seen burms, and a retic for sale.

[lucky8926]

I'm also from Illinois. Schlyne made a good point about if it was illegal how are the pet stores getting away with selling these snakes in the pet stores here in IL? I'm not sure if the Dept. of Conservation would know anything or not. They deal with animals but I think it's mostly wild animals. They still might know the laws concerning keeping snakes. Your local animal shelter or maybe even a vet might know something.

[lucky8926]

I just found this http://www.prairienet.org/cash/statelaw.htm
I sent an e-mail to the IL Dept. of Ag. to see what the deal is regarding this matter. I'll let you know when/if I hear anything.